Simplify dinner with our ultimate meal planning guide. Discover tips, theme nights, and grocery hacks to make your weeknight meals stress-free.
Ever stared at your cupboard, hoping dinner would magically appear? Yeah, us too. Meal planning is your ticket to stress-free weeknight dinners and keeping your groceries in check. Whether you're cooking for one or whipping up meals for a small army (aka your family), we've got the lowdown on how to plan a week’s worth of meals with all the fun, quirk, and flair that OneDayOnly is known for. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Before you even think about hitting the grocery store or opening your favourite grocery shopping app, grab a notepad (or your phone) and jot down the week ahead. Are there any days you know you'll be too busy to cook? Any nights out planned? Sketching out your schedule helps you see the bigger picture and plan meals accordingly.
Adding a bit of routine to your week can make meal planning easier. Taco Tuesday, anyone? How about Pasta Wednesday? Pick themes that get you excited about dinner. Trust us, it makes grocery shopping and meal prep way more fun.
Before adding items to your online shopping cart, take stock of what you already have. Dig through your pantry and fridge to see what needs to be used up. This not only saves money but also prevents food waste. Double win!
Once you know what you need, create a master grocery list. Include everything you'll need for your planned meals, and don’t forget the basics – milk, bread, eggs, etc. This is where those grocery shopping tips come in handy. Check off items as you go to make sure you don’t forget anything.
For items you use often, buying in bulk can be a game-changer. Things like rice, pasta, and canned goods have a long shelf life and are often cheaper when you buy more. Plus, it means fewer trips to the store.
Once your order is delivered to your door, it’s time to prep or you returned from the store. Wash and chop veggies, marinate meats, and portion out snacks. Store them in containers so they’re ready to go when you need them. Prepping ahead can make cooking during the week a breeze.
Speaking of freezing, don’t be shy to stock up your freezer with homemade meals. Soups, stews, and casseroles freeze well and can be lifesavers on busy nights. Label them with the date so you know what to eat first.
Variety is the spice of life and is also essential for meal planning. Try new recipes and switch things up to keep your taste buds happy. Use OneDayOnly to find deals on unique ingredients and kitchen gadgets that make cooking more exciting.
Meal planning might seem like a lot of work upfront, but it pays off big time. You’ll save money, eat healthier, and avoid the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” question. Plus, with OneDayOnly’s range of food and beverage deals, you can get everything you need at the best prices. So why not give it a try? Your future self will thank you.
Happy cooking, and may the food be with you!